In a recent documentary, Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich elaborated on his vision for a Jewish State extending beyond current boundaries to include territories in Egypt and Syria. His assertions reflect extremist views within the Israeli government, garnering attention amid ongoing military operations in Gaza and Lebanon that have heightened regional tensions and fears of further conflict.
In a recent documentary aired by Arte Reportage, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich articulated a vision for a Jewish State that not only encompasses the entirety of Palestinian territory up to the Jordan River but also aspires to extend its borders into portions of Egypt and Syria, notably reaching towards Damascus, as well as further territories that could include Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Smotrich, one of the prominent figures in Israel’s current right-wing government, reflected on this expansionist view during an interview, stating, “It is written that the future of Jerusalem is to expand to Damascus,” indicating a religious and historical justification for his perspective. The documentary, titled “Israel: Extremists in Power,” delves into the positions of extremist ministers, notably National Security Minister Itamar ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich. The narrative presented not only underscores the extremist ideology but also highlights how such viewpoints have permeated the fabric of public discourse in Israel. Responding to queries about the potential borders of a Jewish state extending beyond the Jordan River, Smotrich confirmed, “Absolutely, but slowly… Our esteemed religious elders used to say that the future of Jerusalem would extend as far as Damascus.” These assertions are particularly alarming in the context of the recent escalation of violence in the region. Following the Hamas attacks on October 7, Israel has found itself engrossed in a military conflict that has provoked international outrage and discussions about alleged human rights violations. The ongoing conflict has also raised fears regarding the potential for a broader regional war, exacerbating already heightened tensions in the Middle East. Furthermore, Israel’s military operations have recently expanded into Lebanon, signaling a significant escalation of the long-standing hostilities in the area, particularly against Hezbollah, marking the first concerted offensive since Israel’s 2006 incursion into Lebanon.
The statements made by Minister Bezalel Smotrich reflect a broader trend among Israeli right-wing politicians advocating for the expansion of Israel’s territory. With the current government’s stance regarded as the most extreme in Israel’s history, there exists a troubling intertwining of nationalist and religious motivations driving proposals for territorial expansion. The context of these discussions is deeply rooted in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian factions, particularly following recent escalations in violence following the attacks by Hamas on October 7. In the light of this conflict, many regional actors are concerned about the potential for broader hostilities that could draw in multiple nations, particularly in the volatile landscape of the Middle East.
In conclusion, Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich has made contentious declarations regarding the aspiration for a Jewish State that includes territories beyond historical borders, encompassing parts of Egypt and Syria. His remarks, presented in the documentary ‘Israel: Extremists in Power,’ illuminate the prevailing extremist sentiments within the Israeli political landscape, particularly in the wake of escalated military operations in Gaza and Lebanon. Such ambitions raise significant concerns about the future of regional stability and the potential for broader conflict in an already tense Middle East.
Original Source: egyptianstreets.com
